How can ecosystem services support equitable and sustainable fisheries?

Abstract

There are knowledge gaps on the flows of ecosystem goods and services in the seas and oceans – and these gaps hamper equitable and sustainable fisheries management. Methods for measuring and monitoring ecosystem services can help conserve biodiversity in the fisheries sector as a way to alleviate poverty and support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The key messages of this policy brief from the ESPA programme and Strathclyde University are:

• Methodologies to understand ecosystem service flows and tradeoffs in fisheries management can be applied even in data-poor contexts.
• Ecosystem monitoring should consider cumulative impacts of development and conservation measures on fisheries and communities.
• Early consideration of livelihoods in conservation measures is crucial for equitable and effective outcomes, and needs to be complemented by social safety nets and capacity building.
• Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) schemes that incorporate traditional knowledge can effectively incentivise conservation and improve livelihoods.
• Identifying overlooked trade-offs through use of disaggregated data can contribute to equitable and integrated marine and coastal management.
• A stronger focus is needed on the governance of small-scale fisheries, both among and within States, including evaluating ecosystem services as part of integrated impact assessments.